France opens attempted murder probe after protest attack

Paris prosecutors opened an attempted murder investigation Sunday after a Molotov cocktail was thrown at security forces during a demonstration in the French capital.

Prosecutors said explosive projectiles targeted about 15 gendarmes as well as police officers. No suspects have been arrested over the attack, and investigators were still establishing the number and severity of injuries.

The attack took place at Porte de Charenton, where Saturday's march ended. Photographs and video from the AFP news agency showed an incendiary device exploding at a gendarme's feet and setting his protective equipment alight.

Prosecutors said reported injuries included second-degree burns and tinnitus, although those details remained provisional. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez described the attack as an attempted murder.

The Interior Ministry reported 779 arrests nationwide during the demonstrations and Halloween night. The figure includes both events, updating Saturday evening's provisional total of 565. Authorities said the later part of the night passed without major incidents.

Paris prosecutors separately reported 105 arrests in the capital: 88 linked to the demonstrations and 17 to Halloween night. They said 89 people remained in custody, including at least 22 minors.

The protests focused on high living costs and government policies. The ministry put nationwide turnout at 320,000, while unions estimated nearly 500,000 participants.

The nationwide arrest total was below the 1,314 recorded during the previous Saturday's mobilization and the 2,628 on October 17, when widespread rioting and looting broke out. Authorities had increased security ahead of Halloween amid online calls for violence.